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Council Receives Recommendations for Police Department from Ryan Strategies

When Mayor Brian Arrigo took office in 2016 he opted not to renew then Police Chief Joseph Cafarelli’s contract. Arrigo appointed Capt. James Guido as acting police chief, citing a desire to have the entire department reviewed and hopefully move to a community policing style.

“Over a year ago I made one of the more difficult decisions in my time as mayor when I declined to renew the contract of Police Chief Cafarelli,” Arrigo said. “While I respect his dedication to his job and his service to the community I think it’s imperative to place at the head of the department a person whose desire for the city police force mirrored my own. I promoted Capt. James Guido, a 31-year veteran of the force as police chief.

At the same time, Arrigo initiated an organizational review of the police department.

Monday night Arrigo presented the City Council with the report from Ryan Strategies Group, headed by Arlington Police Chief Fred Ryan, along with Chelsea Chief Brian Keyes. Also attending the meeting were captains from the Revere Police Department and Revere union rep Charles Callahan.

“I see this as a two-pronged approach to improve the Revere Police Department,” Arrigo said. “The report helps set the course for the foreseeable future.”

“When I took office I observed complex challenges in the Revere Police Department. Complex challenges do not yield to simple solutions; complex solutions entail tough self-assessment, honesty, andingenuity, blended with a dose of courage, Above all else, complex solutions require cooperation.” Arrigo said. “I am eager to continue to work with Chief Guido and his command staff.”

The following are recommendations that Ryan Strategies Group identifies as 37 distinct recommendations for the Revere Police Department, they have been grouped into five different categories. The report is public and will be shared with every member of the department. The report is available online at Revere.org and can be found under the City Council meeting packet for May 7. The recommendations are as follows: